The Swiss Sports Tribunal has extended the ban of triathlete Michele Caverzasio by eight years for repeatedly breaking anti-doping rules. Caverzasio, who was already serving a doping suspension, was found to have ordered banned substances multiple times during his suspension.
The first offence occurred in October 2022 when a postal inspection intercepted a package addressed to Caverzasio, containing four vials of the banned growth hormone Pharmatropin. A second incident took place in November 2023 when customs seized another shipment to him, containing three vials of the same substance.
Authorities informed Caverzasio that possessing and attempting to use banned substances while under suspension was a serious violation. As he did not respond to the allegations, an investigation was launched.
During the proceedings, Caverzasio claimed the second shipment was a partial delivery from the first order. However, Swiss Sport Integrity investigations showed this was not true and confirmed he had repeatedly violated anti-doping regulations.
The tribunal found him guilty of possessing and attempting to use prohibited substances. His ban was extended by eight years, starting after his current suspension ends on June 17, 2026. The ban applies to all sports and functions worldwide. Caverzasio was also fined 500 Swiss francs (€530) and ordered to pay 750 Swiss francs (€795) in legal costs.
Swiss Sport Integrity stressed that the doping rules apply to all athletes licensed or affiliated with Swiss Olympic clubs. Violations during a suspension can result in harsher penalties, including a lifetime ban for repeat offenders.
This case highlights the serious consequences of breaking anti-doping rules.
